Contents
- 1 How do I know what size my extension cord is?
- 2 What is the diameter of 14 gauge extension cord?
- 3 What gauge is a heavy duty extension cord?
- 4 What gauge is a heavy-duty extension cord?
- 5 How many watts can a 14 gauge extension cord handle?
- 6 What kind of extension cord should I use?
- 7 What is an electrical extension cord?
How do I know what size my extension cord is?
The diameter of the conductors within an extension cord are measured in terms of American Wire Gauge (AWG), usually shortened to just “gauge” and expressed by a number. Common household extension cords are available in 16 gauge (smallest), 14 gauge, 12 gauge, and 10 gauge (biggest).
Do I need 12 or 14 gauge extension cord?
14-Gauge Cords: Any 14-gauge cord between 0 and 50 feet long will adequately handle loads between 10 and 15 amps. 12-Gauge Cords: If your tool load is between 10 and 15 amps and the length of the cord is 50 to 100 feet, you need a 12-gauge cord to safely power any tool. This is a great extension cord for many purposes.
What is the diameter of 14 gauge extension cord?
3/8″
It is heavier than my other (different brand) 14 gauge cable. The diameter of the cord is at least 3/8″, perhaps even 5/8″.
What is the preferred size of extension cord?
When an extension cord is used with the portable disc grinder make sure the cord is sufficiently large in size for the grinder being used. A #14 gauge extension cord is minimum and #12 gauge is preferred.
What gauge is a heavy duty extension cord?
A cord measuring 14 AWG is the thinnest we recommend—and at lengths of only 25 feet or shorter—and the much thicker 10 AWG is likely the thickest gauge you’ll find in an extension cord….Recommended wire gauge for extension cords.
| Cord length | What thickness you need |
|---|---|
| 100 feet | 10/3 (10 AWG) |
What is a heavy-duty extension cord?
Heavy-duty extension cords are suitable for drawing 10 to 15 amps of power. These are always grounded extension cords that include a third wire and plug prong for grounding and have plugs with three slots for accepting grounded appliance cords.
What gauge is a heavy-duty extension cord?
Why would I need a heavy duty extension cord?
For outdoor purposes, a heavily insulated cord will be the best option, such as extension cords heavy duty. If you need to plug in several devices in one location there are several options. If you need an extension cord that can be used outdoors, you will want a heavy duty power cord that has a heavy gauge.
How many watts can a 14 gauge extension cord handle?
Matching Extension Cord to Load
| Extension Cord Wire Gauges, Amperage Rating, and Wattage | ||
|---|---|---|
| Wire Gauge | Amperage Rating | Wattage Rating |
| #18 | 5 Amps | 600 Watts |
| #16 | 7 Amps | 840 Watts |
| #14 | 12 Amps | 1,440 Watts |
What is the maximum length of an extension cord?
In general, extension cords should not exceed 100 feet in length. However, by plugging one extension cord into another, the maximum cord length can be easily exceeded. If the job requires more than a 100-foot distance, a temporary power distribution box is required.
What kind of extension cord should I use?
With simple devices, such as lamps, radios, televisions, and other electronics, the familiar basic household extension cord is perfectly acceptable in most cases. Usually, these basic extension cords use 16-gauge wire.
What gauge wire for extension cord?
AWG means American Wire Gauge. It designates the size of the coppper wire in an extension cord. The most common size for the extension cords are 16 AWG, 14 AWG, and 12 AWG.
What is an electrical extension cord?
An extension cord is a type of electrical wiring used to extend the length of a power cord.